A Million Moments of Closeness

When I first left home some eight years ago, I was excited.

I was going to a new place, a new country (Australia), to meet lots of new people, and to learn about and experience a whole different culture. I tried new foods. I learnt to surf. I joined a gym for the first time. I learnt to ski and fell in love with it. I went camping with wombats and kangaroos swam in the most beautiful beaches at Wilson’s Promontory. In the summer I went skinny-dipping. I joined a kung-fu club. I dressed up and danced as Dame Edna in the closing ceremony of the Commonwealth Games in 2006. I even learnt how to cook cheaply and quickly (though not often), do my own laundry, and operate a clothes iron.

I did a whole multitude of things that I simply can’t itemise in one paragraph.

Despite all that, I still had many moments of loneliness, especially in the first year. Moving far away from the familiarity of home not only gives you a newfound freedom to explore and be independent, but also means leaving behind your family, your friends, and all the people and things you know and grew up with. And in these circumstances, it’s easy to feel lonely.

The thing about loneliness is that it can consume you. Without the presence of positive relationships, your self-esteem suffers and you can even lose your appetite and forget to look after yourself. Social isolation can also lead to anxiety and depression, along with a higher risk of obesity and high blood pressure.

Being in a foreign country for all of my adult life, I know how debilitating loneliness can be. It’s ever so vital to be close to people you can share with and confide in, and people who can simply keep you company when you most need it. Staying connected with your friends and family can help steer you away from loneliness and depression.

It goes without saying that when you’re surrounded by people you love and have a great sense of togetherness, you will have a healthier, happier heart!

To celebrate its 100th birthday, NIVEA are promoting the spirit of healthy togetherness. Get involved by visiting the Facebook page here, where you can take part in NIVEA’s A Million Moments of Closeness by uploading your favourite photos of you with someone you’re close to – a friend, sibling, parent, partner, pet, toy, anything/anyone – and win prizes.

You can also find out about roadshow events where you can pick up some NIVEA freebies and if you’re up for it, you can also participate in the ongoing debates discussing topics such as what makes people truly feel close to each other and how modern technology can change the way we stay connected.

Personally, I couldn’t be more thankful for the internet and mobile phones. Back in Australia I used ancient $5 call cards and exchanged text-only emails to keep in touch with my loved ones. But communication tools quickly evolved and by the time I relocated to London, I could stay in touch with my friends and family in both Malaysia and Australia using video and free instant-messaging tools on my iPhone 🙂

For many a sad moment, I’ve relied heavily on the comforting words and presence of the friends I’ve made here.

In the absence of my family, these are the people I can count on for a hug, a movie partner, a dance buddy, or simply someone to.. you know, watch my face as I talk.

Text messages and photos can only do so much – physical proximity can do so much MORE!
Here are some of my favourite photos that remind me of the wonderful people I have in my life:

First and foremost: My family

Aysha and Emma, who brought so much fun and joy to London

L: Joyce, R: Melissa, and Nadia, who made my summer last year one of the best!

Ryan, the bestest friend and companion that I could ever ask for

My sister, the most precious thing in my life

Hmmm.. crazy people

Joyce again, the best travel-friend in the world!

More Aysha

Kubhaer, one of my newest friends who sent kind words all the way from Prague when I was down

Sam and Meesh, friends who are always smiling!

A special note to Sian, who always has good advice and never passes on an ice-cream date.. And also Marisa & Azlan, for the great company and all the amazing food.